The Landscape

The landscape of De Biesbosch National Park is a vibrant mosaic of wide rivers, narrow creeks, marshy forests, and vast reed beds. This rare freshwater tidal area still experiences the subtle rhythm of ebb and flow, giving the region its unique character. The winding shape of the Biesbosch has been shaped by centuries of flooding, land reclamation, and natural changes. After the devastating St. Elizabeth’s Flood of 1421, the area transformed into a sprawling watery wilderness. For centuries, people adapted to this challenging environment. They lived on small islands, harvested willow branches for baskets and fishing traps, and spent weeks in remote huts deep in the wetlands. Completely in tune with the rhythm of the water.

Today De Biesbosch is a vibrant and dynamic nature reserve where natural processes have plenty of room to unfold. Beavers make their home here, sea eagles breed in the area, and you can explore the watery maze of creeks and willow forests by canoe or silent boat. At the same time, human influence remains visible. Locks, dams, boardwalks, and old willow plantations tell the story of a landscape constantly changing. Thanks to high dikes, open polders, and the Delta Works, the area has become more accessible. From the cycling paths you can enjoy beautiful views of the rugged, wet nature full of water birds.

Coastal and Tidal Zone

Polders and Farmlands

Lakes and Ponds

Rivers and Streams

Join us on this virtual cycling route

Virtual cycling through the National Park De Biesbosch

Route map

Start and finish near bike node 8 on De Hilweg in Werkendam, the total distance of the route is approx. 50 km. However, this bike route is a circular tour, so it offers the possibility to start from any of the following bike nodes.

Note: bike node point 90 has been added to indicate the direction of the cycling route. However, this bike node point is not included in the bike tour. You can turn around near the ferry service Lage Zwaluwe-Werkendam at the Deeneplaatweg nr. 262 in Werkendam. From here you can continue your bike tour to bike node point 8.

8 - 90 - Rondje Jantjeskeet - 8 - 2 - 4 - 22 - 21 - 16 - 18 - 15 - 9 - 6 - 27 - 11 - 10 - 29 - 13 - 17 - 19 - 20 - 8

  • 100% of the route runs on paved roads. 

MORE INFO ABOUT ROAD AND SURFACE CONDITIONS

50
Kilometers
200
Minutes
54
Elevation meters